Destinations for Savvy Travelers

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Going Solo

As enjoyable as it is to travel with a compatible companion, it can be equally or even more enriching to travel alone.
Being alone on a trip offers ways to experience a destination in a new and unique way. Besides the usual perks of having the freedom to go where and when you want to, when you travel by your lonesome, you open yourself up to having adventures. A day scheduled for the museum might turn into a walking tour followed by dinner at an exotic restaurant with a new friend you met waiting for the bus. You just never know what will happen.
To make the most out of traveling with yourself, here are some tips:

Plan your itinerary ahead of time. As you are alone, the burden is on you (hooray!) to figure out the logistics and get around safely. It helps to be organized.

Safety comes first. Always keep in mind that you are accountable for you. Treat yourself well by making sure that you do not put yourself in harm’s way. If the neighborhood where you are staying is iffy, make sure you do not walk home late at night. Find a driver who you can rely on to drive you around, especially to areas that may not be safe.

Talk to strangers. When traveling alone, the more open you are to the world around you, the more interesting your trip will be. Do not hesitate to strike up conversations with people around you. They most likely will welcome the interruption — and could become your best friend for the next few days.

Rely on your instincts. It’s OK to be friendly; it’s not OK to engage in situations that feel uncomfortable. Do not hesitate to say no to a personal exchange or offer and feel good about it. This is your experience and your life!